Redesigned Sorento boasts a power upgrade, upscale interior
The Kia Sorento gets a serious redesign for 2016, and the standard five- seat crossover continues to boast impressive value in a red- hot segment. When you consider there are three variations for the Sorento’s engine and an optional third row of seating to accommodate seven passengers, it’s not hard to see why this Kia is making waves with the competition.
Exterior
Kia offers five Sorento trim levels: L, LX, EX, SX and Limited. I recently tested the Limited model. On the outside, the 2016 Sorento is nothing like the 2015 version. The new Sorento’s exterior design accommodates a slightly larger size that is more refined with far softer lines than the previous model.
The Kia grille delivers a bold statement up front that is accentuated by the upscale headlight treatment slotted atop the front panels, with 2x2 LEDs stacked below to finish the high- tech impression. The roofline is sleek, and it peaks mid- cabin and begins a gentle flow to the rear, where a short overhang adds a nice touch of sophistication above the rear lift door.
Interior
My Sorento Limited offered a cabin design featuring plenty of high- quality and soft- touch materials. Leather seating was comfortable and heated. Front- row seats are power operated with perfect seating positions guaranteed. Second- row seating is slightly tight, but considering there is a third row, it is accommodating. The third row is best for children; adults will not find comfort back there.
The Sorento offers more cargo space than many other two- row midsize SUVs. Dash alignment with the driver puts the 8- inch touch screen in perfect position at center, while a 10- speaker Infinity audio system was worthy of special praise for audio quality and fun.
The base Sorento comes standard with Bluetooth, a USB port and satellite radio. Optional features include a 10- speaker Infinity surround- sound audio system, a panoramic sunroof, Kia’s UVO infotainment system, a rearview camera, a 360- degree camera system, adaptive cruise control, rear parking sensors, blind- spot monitoring, rear cross- traffic monitoring, forward collision warning, lanedeparture warning, proximity key, dual- zone automatic climate control and nav system.
Performance
A 2.4- liter four- cylinder engine is standard, while a 3.3- literV- 6 or a turbocharged, 2.0- liter four- cylinder engine are optional. A six- speed automatic transmission and frontwheel drive are standard, while all- wheel drive is optional.
Sorento delivers notable fuel economy, with the base model offering 21/ 29 mpg city/ highway, and overall exceptional value for the base price of $ 24,900. John Stein is a Chicago- based freelance writer with more than 20 years experience reporting transportation industry news and writing vehicle reviews for print and digital media in the Midwest.